Liberty announced today that running back Aldreakis Allen has been “suspended from the football program for a violation of team policy.”
Allen led the Flames last year in rushing with 1,019 yards and 10 rushing touchdowns. The rising senior was set to be the offensive leader for Liberty’s 2013 campaign. Allen was dismissed from the program in July of 2010. After a year away from the team, former Liberty head coach Danny Rocco brought Allen back to the team in 2011.
I have been surprised by how much media attention, even from the national media, this has garnered. Of course, as a football fan, I feel disappointed over what AA’s loss means to the team. He could have had a monster year for himself and the school.
So I’m conflicted. I feel anger and frustration at him on one level and pity for him on another. The kid seems to be his own worst enemy and has spoiled a precious opportunity for himself. Maybe this will be the final wake-up call for him to straighten out his life once and for all.
His mugshot is available online and you can see the charges, but how soon before the details will be public? From what outlets? Are there any mitigating circumstances? Any chance the charges will be dropped? Any possibility that his suspension gets lifted? Even if AA avoids jail, does he deserve a 3rd or 4th chance?
No matter the case, life is more important than football and I hope AA will come out as a better person through this difficult experience.
Don’t believe everything you read. Maybe all the facts haven’t been given. Still innocent till proven guilty.